How to Open AVIF Files
Complete guide to viewing AVIF files on any device or platform
The easiest way to view AVIF files is in a modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge) which supports AVIF natively. Simply drag and drop the AVIF file into your browser. For older software compatibility, convert to JPEG using AVIF.fast for instant universal compatibility.
Opening AVIF on Windows 10/11
Use a Modern Browser (Recommended)
Easiest method - works on all Windows versions
Simply open your AVIF file in Chrome, Firefox, or Edge:
- Open Chrome, Firefox, or Edge
- Press Ctrl+O or drag and drop your AVIF file into the browser
- The image displays instantly!
✓ Pro Tip: This method requires no installation and works perfectly for viewing AVIF images.
Install AVIF Codec for Windows
For native Windows Photos app support
To view AVIF in Windows Photos app and File Explorer thumbnails:
- Download AV1 Video Extension from Microsoft Store (free)
- Optionally install AVIF Image Extensions for better support
- Restart File Explorer or reboot your PC
- Double-click AVIF files to open in Photos app
- View AVIF thumbnails in File Explorer
Use Desktop Image Viewers
Advanced viewers with full AVIF support
Recommended Windows programs with AVIF support:
- IrfanView - Free, fast image viewer with AVIF plugin
- XnView MP - Advanced viewer and converter
- GIMP - Free photo editor with AVIF support
- Photoshop 2022+ - Professional editing with native AVIF
Opening AVIF on Mac
Multiple options! macOS supports AVIF through browsers (Safari 16+, Chrome, Firefox) and Preview app with optional plugins. Choose the method that works best for you.
Using Preview App
Default and easiest method
- Double-click any AVIF file on your Mac
- It will automatically open in Preview
- To convert: Go to File → Export
- Choose JPEG, PNG, or another format from the dropdown
- Click Save
Using Photos App
Great for managing multiple AVIF files
- Open the Photos app
- Drag and drop AVIF files into Photos
- Select photos and go to File → Export
- Choose JPEG as the export format
Convert AVIF to JPEG
✨ Universal Compatibility Solution
For maximum compatibility with all devices and software, convert AVIF to JPEG format. This ensures your images work everywhere, from old photo editors to legacy systems.
How to Use AVIF.fast Converter:
- 1. Visit AVIF.fast
- 2. Drag and drop your AVIF file (or click to browse)
- 3. Wait 2-3 seconds for automatic conversion
- 4. Download your JPEG file
- 5. Open the JPEG on any device!
Why Online Conversion is Best:
- ✓ No software installation required
- ✓ Works on any device - Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
- ✓ Universal compatibility - JPEG opens everywhere
- ✓ Fast and free - 2-3 second conversion
- ✓ Batch conversion available for multiple files
- ✓ No file size limits
View AVIF in Your Browser
✨ Easiest Method - No Software Required!
All modern web browsers have native AVIF support built-in. This is the fastest and simplest way to view AVIF files.
✓ Supported Browsers:
- • Chrome 85+ (August 2020)
- • Firefox 93+ (October 2021)
- • Safari 16+ (September 2022)
- • Edge 90+ (April 2021)
- • Opera 71+ (September 2020)
How to View:
- 1. Open Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge
- 2. Drag and drop your AVIF file into the browser window
- 3. The image displays instantly!
Tip: You can also press Ctrl+O (Cmd+O on Mac) to open a file dialog.
💡 Why this works: AVIF was designed for the web, so browsers were the first to add support. This method works on all operating systems including Windows, Mac, Linux, and ChromeOS.
Method Comparison: Which is Best?
| Method | Difficulty | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Converter | Very Easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Instant | Everyone |
| Mac Preview | Very Easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Instant | Mac users |
| Windows + Extensions | Medium ⭐⭐⭐ | Fast | Windows 10/11 |
| Google Photos | Easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Fast | Android users |
| Third-Party Apps | Medium ⭐⭐⭐ | Medium | Power users |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
❌ "Can't open this file" on Windows
Solution:
- • Install AV1 Video Extension from Microsoft Store (free)
- • Optionally install AVIF Image Extensions for full support
- • Restart your computer after installation
- • Or simply convert to JPEG online
❌ AVIF files show as blank or black
Solution:
- • File may be corrupted during transfer
- • Try re-downloading the file from the original source
- • Use a different viewer or converter
❌ "Codec not supported" error
Solution:
- • Install AV1 Video Extension from Microsoft Store
- • Update Windows to the latest version for better codec support
- • Use an online converter instead for instant compatibility
❌ Android phone won't display AVIF files
Solution:
- • Use Google Photos app (has built-in AVIF support)
- • Update Android to version 12+ for native support
- • Install a third-party image viewer with AVIF support
- • Convert to JPEG for universal compatibility
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open AVIF files without converting them?
Yes, all modern browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge) can open AVIF files natively without any installation. For desktop apps: Mac computers support AVIF in Preview, Windows 10/11 can open them after installing AV1 Video Extension from Microsoft Store, and Android 12+ has native support. However, converting to JPEG is often easier and ensures universal compatibility.
Is it safe to convert AVIF files online?
Yes, using reputable converters like AVIF.fast is safe. Your files are processed securely and automatically deleted after conversion. However, avoid uploading sensitive or private photos to any online service if you have concerns.
Will converting AVIF to JPEG reduce quality?
Modern converters maintain 95%+ quality during conversion. The difference is imperceptible to the human eye for most photos. The benefit of universal compatibility usually outweighs any minimal quality loss.
Why can't I see AVIF files on my PC?
Windows doesn't have built-in AVIF support by default in older versions. Install the free AV1 Video Extension and optionally AVIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store, or simply convert the files to JPEG format for instant compatibility.
Can I batch convert multiple AVIF files at once?
Yes! Most online converters including AVIF.fast support batch conversion. You can upload multiple AVIF files simultaneously and download all converted JPEGs in one go.
Ready to Open Your AVIF Files?
Convert AVIF to JPEG in seconds with our free online tool. No software installation required.